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Day: March 14, 2019

I enjoy working with and training my dogs. I’ve read a ton of books on dog training and attended several different training schools with my dogs. However, the book “Three Dimensional Dog” by Aaron McDonald is different from anything I have encountered up to this point.

It was eye opening and changed my entire approach to dog training. While I was reading the book, I was wondering why didn’t I think about these issues. It seems so obvious now.

The first part of the book explains the differences between trick training and cognitive behavior training.

Most dogs are trained to perform an action for a treat. The training is focused only on the outer behavior of the dog. This is known as trick training.

Cognitive behavior training looks at the whole dog. It addresses the inner mind and emotions of the dog and uses that information to teach the dog how to live peacefully within the family unit. The three dimensional approach to dog training is based on cognitive behaviorism.

The first dimension that needs to be addressed is the dog’s emotional needs. Does the dog feel safe and have appropriate boundaries? Are the dog’s physical needs being addressed?

The second dimension is concerned with what the dog is thinking. Before a dog does anything they will develop an intellectual plan. Paying attention to the dog’s body language will tell you how the dog is feeling and give you insight into what the dog is thinking.

The third dimension involves action. It is everything the dog does with their body. This is where traditional training methods actually start.

Addressing the dogs physical, emotional, and intellectual needs will allow the dog to reach a state of actualization. Also, focusing on the three dimensions help the dog achieve a balanced emotional state. This allows the dog to reach their fullest potential and be a functioning member of the family unit.